Many options. The Revolution-A decoder measures 0.69″ x 2.86″ and will fit many HO scale locomotive models, including the Athearn Genesis F3/7, Atlas B40-8, Kato C424 and many others. See the QSI Web site at www.qsisolutions.com for a full listing.
When ordering the Revolution-A decoder you’ll need to specify the correct Sound Set ID from the QSI Web site. This will ensure that you receive decoders programmed with the correct sounds. Sound files are available for a multitude of steam, diesel, and electric locomotives. The sample we reviewed had sounds appropriate for a first generation Electro-Motive Division diesel locomotive equipped with an EMD 567 engine.
Installation. The QSI Revolution-A isn’t a plug-and-play decoder. There is no factory-installed wiring harness or an 8- or 9-pin plug. In a “DCC-ready” model, such as the HO scale Athearn Genesis F7, the Revolution-A replaces the existing printed-circuit board, so after removing the old PC board you’ll need to solder the model’s wires to corresponding connections on the decoder as outlined in the wiring diagram in the decoder’s instruction manual. Prior to installing the decoder into some older models you’ll also want to make sure that the model’s motor is isolated from track power.
The decoder’s low profile allows you to install it into many newer locomotives with minimal or no modifications to the model. In addition, the decoder supports 1.5V 15ma lamps or light-emitting diodes without the need for additional resistors.
Our review sample came with a 1″-diameter 8? round speaker and a plastic speaker enclosure. Speakers and enclosures are available in other sizes from QSI.
Operation and programming. I operated the QSI Revolution-A decoder with an MRC Prodigy Advance DCC system and the decoder’s sound quality is top-notch. The recorded rumble of the 567 engine sounds just like the real thing, and the factory-programmed Regulated Throttle Control adds realistic momentum to the locomotive’s performance. The QSI Revolution-A decoder also supports Standard Throttle Control, which provides a direct response to throttle commands.
Along with function 2, which triggered the Nathan air horn, the decoder has 13 functions. I especially enjoyed the dual effect of function 9, which triggers a shut-down sequence when the locomotive is stationary and activates a heavy load feature when the locomotive is moving, which lets you increase the engine RPM, while the locomotive’s speed remains constant.
I easily programmed many of the decoder’s configuration variables, including the decoder’s long address and acceleration and deceleration rates. The decoder supports advance consisting.
A welcome feature of the QSI Revolution-A decoder is that you won’t have to worry about it becoming obsolete in the near future. The firm regularly offers performance and sound upgrades available free-of-charge via its Web site. You can also download a new sound file for a different type of locomotive. However, you will need to purchase a QSI Quantum Programmer (suggested retail price, $99.95) to download any upgrades or new sound files into QSI decoders.
Versatile, upgradable, and including a long list of programmable features, the Revolution-A decoder is a great option for adding high-quality sound to a locomotive model.
Price: $99.95
Manufacturer
QSI Solutions c/o American
Hobby Distributors
57 River Road, Suite 1023
Essex Junction, VT 05452
www.qsisolutions.com
Features
1-2 watt audio amplifier
8 sound channels
13 functions
14, 28, 128 speed steps
Automatic dual-model operation for sound on DC or DCC layouts
Steady state current: 1.3A (about 2A stall current)
Supports programming on the main or programming track (to read back CVs)
